I’m one of those people who make a list for everything. By the end of the week, I have a sizable collection of post-it notes in my purse ranging from new websites to check out to funny words or quotes I heard to stuff to buy. I’m also a doodler, a paper fanatic and obsessive about writing instruments. So it makes sense that I make lists, if not for any other reason but to put ink on paper, well, just because.

While I have a talent for making lists, just because, I also am a bit neurotic about maintaining a serious actionable to-do list at work and at home. I read a study somewhere that proved it is possible to get a rush of adrenaline when you cross something off a to-do list. Of course, the day I read this was the day I began adding things to my to-do list I had already done, just for the satisfaction of running my black Sharpie  through the middle of it.

It’s that time of year when I take my cue from the big guy in red  as I make my lists and check them twice before leaving the house to join the holiday crowds. It’s also time for many students to begin making their lists for the upcoming semester. Here are a few topics that may be on yours:

• Register for spring classes
• Look up scholarship deadlines
• Figure out how to apply for a Federal Loan
• Schedule a call with a loan expert
• Return library books
• Download exclusive music

As for my lists – today I ran into the kitchen waving our master holiday shopping list in the air at my husband as if it were a winning lottery ticket.

Holiday shopping? Check.
Adrenaline pumping? Check.
Celebrating good times? Check!

Sending you warm wishes for fun, safe and splendid holidays.

Editor’s note: Rachel and the rest of the Student LoanDown team will be on holiday hiatus until the new year. See you in 2008!